West Haven grand list grows by over $18 million to total of $2.82 billion

WEST HAVEN -- The city's 2011 grand list grew by $18.06 million compared to last year's, despite a drop in real estate assessments and a stagnant economy, officials said.

The boost, which brings the grand list to $2.82 billion, wasn't driven by any significant building projects, but came through a few different avenues, according to Assessor Ann Marie Gradoia.

The figure represents about a 1 percent increase from last year's $2.8 billion and will bring the city about $500,000 in additional revenue, Mayor John M. Picard said.

"Half of a million in more revenue is always welcomed here. Would you like it to be more? Always, but it's a welcome step in the right direction," Picard said, adding that the grand list decreased last year.

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The grand list reflects the value of all taxable real estate, motor vehicles and business equipment.

Residents' purchases of new vehicles contributed to the increase, as the net total of motor vehicles went up from $224.09 million to $239.6 million, according to the assessor's office.

The results of a personal property tax audit program also helped, as business equipment increased from $86.74 million to $90.32 million.

A contractor had assisted the assessor's office in tracking down city residents' vehicles that were registered in other states, as those cars can be billed here for property taxes, according to Gradoia. She offered the example of people who live in other states for part of the year and drive a car between the two residences.

Gradoia said the city is also getting additional revenue from businesses that hadn't yet registered in the city.

The real estate total took a small dip, going from $2.495 billion to $2.494 billion.

Picard said Thursday that he anticipates the grand list to show additional growth next year, thanks to upcoming building projects such as a CVS pharmacy proposal.

Mike Last, leader of the City Council's Finance Committee, called the extra revenue "much needed," adding, "I think it's a small increase, but it's positive, and I'm looking forward to better years, certainly with a City Council that's more business-friendly, a revamped planning and zoning board that's more business-friendly."

Regarding grand list increases in each fire district, the Center District went up by $6.2 million, Allingtown by $6.06 million, and West Shore by $5.79 million, according to the assessor's office.

Picard will submit a proposed budget for fiscal 2012-13 to the City Council in March, and a new tax rate will be finalized after the council approves a budget this spring.